Craving a light yet satisfying meal packed with flavor and crunch? This Crispy Tilapia Salad is the perfect answer, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to heavier fish dishes. Forget greasy frying – this recipe delivers perfectly crispy tilapia fillets using a surprisingly simple and healthy cooking method. The vibrant salad is bursting with fresh, crisp vegetables and a zesty, creamy dressing that complements the delicate fish beautifully. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a refreshing lunch.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. The unique preparation ensures your tilapia will be incredibly crispy, while the fresh vegetables and flavorful dressing add a delightful complexity. Ready to learn how to create this amazing Crispy Tilapia Salad? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Hand whisk
- Pan
- Ladle
- Chopsticks
- Spatula
- Curry rack
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- Tilapia meat (frozen)
- Vegetable oil
- Breadcrumbs
- Coconut sugar: 5 tablespoons
- Fish sauce: 5 tablespoons
- Lime juice: 6 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Chili
- Green apple (or mango)
- Shallots
- Peanuts
- Celery leaves
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Tilapia Mixture
- Boil the tilapia meat for approximately 10 minutes until cooked.
- Remove the tilapia meat and let it drain.
- Pound the cooked tilapia meat in a mortar and pestle until fluffy.
- In a bowl, mix the pounded tilapia meat with water and vegetable oil using a hand whisk until thick and fluffy.
- Gradually add breadcrumbs and mix well.
Step 2. Make the Dipping Sauce
- Mix coconut sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chili in a bowl.
Step 3. Fry the Tilapia
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the tilapia mixture in batches, forming it into a raft shape using chopsticks and a spatula. Fry until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4. Serve the Crispy Tilapia Salad
- Serve the crispy tilapia salad with the dipping sauce, garnished with chopped celery leaves, apple, shallots, and peanuts.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- Using a mortar and pestle helps create a fluffier texture compared to using a blender.
- Don't add too much oil when frying; the tilapia will release its own oil during cooking.
- Use medium heat when frying to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
- Practice forming the tilapia raft; it might take some practice but becomes easier with time.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of fish instead of tilapia?
While this recipe is designed for tilapia's delicate flavor, you can experiment with other firm white fish like cod or mahi-mahi. Adjust cooking time as needed.
2. What can I substitute for the dressing if I don't have all the ingredients?
A simple vinaigrette (oil, vinegar, herbs) or a creamy avocado dressing would be delicious alternatives. Feel free to adjust to your taste preferences!
This Crispy Tilapia Salad (No Fish Needed!) is a testament to how delicious and healthy eating can be. Its simple preparation and incredible flavor make it a recipe you'll want to return to again and again. Enjoy this refreshing and satisfying meal!